Development Engineer (Ion Propulsion)

Location: Auckland, New Zealand. New Zealand roles require eligibility to access equipment and data regulated by U.S. ITAR; nationality checks will be conducted before an employment offer.

Company

hirify.global is an end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems for space missions.

What you will do

• Execute hands-on tests of ion propulsion systems and components.
• Develop test equipment, procedures, and analysis methods to improve vehicle testing capabilities.
• Identify and resolve quality issues, technical challenges, and anomalies with cross-functional teams.
• Create technical documentation in accordance with company standards.
• Develop and maintain data-processing and test-automation code.
• Transition acceptance-testing processes to production teams.

Requirements

• Degree in engineering or physics and at least 1 year of relevant industry experience.
• Experience building or testing mechanical or electromechanical components or systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ownership mindset, attention to detail, adaptability, and commitment to safety protocols.
• Eligibility to access ITAR-regulated equipment and data is required for New Zealand roles; eligible nationalities include citizens of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or NATO countries, subject to restrictions.

Nice to have

• Experience with electric propulsion testing, vacuum systems, high voltage, or particle beams.
• Background in rocket engines, fluid components, or spacecraft propulsion systems.
• Python experience for data manipulation and post-processing.
• Experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on real space missions with tangible impact.
• Collaborate with a cross-functional engineering team.
• Develop a career in New Zealand's growing space industry.
• Work on ion propulsion technology and space exploration innovations.
• Operate in a hands-on environment focused on teamwork, ownership, tight deadlines, and rigorous safety.